General information only. Government programs change often — check the official source before you sign.
Federal: STCs
Eligible air-source heat-pump water heaters create small-scale technology certificates under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme. The number depends on the model and your location zone. As with solar, installers usually claim them and take their value off your price.
Victoria
- Solar Homes hot water rebate — Solar Victoria has offered a rebate for eligible heat-pump and solar hot water systems.
- Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) — accredited providers can offer discounts for replacing an existing system with an efficient heat pump.
The two programs have their own rules about whether they can be combined.
New South Wales
The NSW Energy Savings Scheme (ESS) supports efficient hot water upgrades, including heat pumps, through accredited providers who pass on the value as a discount.
Other states and territories
- ACT — the Sustainable Household Scheme has offered zero-interest loans covering heat-pump hot water.
- South Australia — the Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS) may support some upgrades through retailers.
- Elsewhere — use the energy.gov.au rebates finder for current programs.
Getting the most from your heat pump
If you have solar, setting the heat pump to run in the middle of the day can use your own power and cut running costs. See our heat pump cost guide or compare heat pump hot water quotes.
What to check on your quote
- Each incentive shown as a separate line, with who claims it.
- The model, tank size and performance in your climate.
- Electrical work and removal of the old system.
- Whether the provider is accredited for the state scheme.
Sources
- Clean Energy Regulator — Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme
- Solar Victoria — Solar Homes Program update
- Victorian Government — Victorian Energy Upgrades
- NSW Energy Sustainability Schemes (ESS and PDRS)
- ACT Government — Sustainable Household Scheme
- energy.gov.au — Rebates and assistance finder
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine federal and state hot water incentives?
Often, yes, but state programs have their own rules. Ask your installer to confirm on the quote.
Do I need solar for a heat pump rebate?
No. Heat-pump incentives generally don’t require solar, though solar can reduce running costs.